Key facts
- Iemad Saifo, a Syrian immigrant and business owner, was detained by ICE during a routine check-in.
- Saifo was held for approximately two weeks before being released on bond.
- His daughter, Zena Saifo, described the detention as a shock that upended their family.
- ICE cited Saifo's immigration status and a past witness-tampering conviction for the detention.
- The incident occurred amid an increase in ICE enforcement activity across the US.
Iemad Saifo, a 65-year-old Syrian immigrant and business owner in New Jersey, was detained by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on July 31 during a routine check-in appointment. His daughter, Zena Saifo, described the event as a shock that upended their family's world. Saifo, who arrived in the US in 2002 and whose family are US citizens, had been working with lawyers on his immigration case. However, his immigration history is complicated, including an expired visa, a previous removal order that was later reopened and administratively closed, and a conviction for witness tampering, along with previous arrests for theft and identity impersonation. ICE defended the detention, citing his lack of permanent status and criminal conviction, and characterized him as a "criminal illegal alien." Saifo disputed the government's description of his status, stating he was compliant and awaiting an interview for permanent residency. During his detention, Saifo experienced harsh conditions, including being shackled for extended periods, lack of sleep, and difficulty obtaining necessary medication, leading to significant weight loss and a worsening of a pre-existing voice condition. The detention occurred amid a broader increase in ICE enforcement activity, with July seeing the highest monthly arrest total under the current administration, and a significant portion of those arrested having no criminal convictions. Following a bond hearing where community support, including over 150 letters and thousands of petition signatures, was presented, Saifo was released on August 15. Despite his release, the family lives with the fear of future detention as his immigration case remains pending.